Spain

Spain is a perennial favourite, especially with Europeans, and boasts endless coastlines, fabulous beaches, modern resorts, historical sites and unique Spanish character.

Madrid’s Museo del Prado is full of masterpieces, the Basilica de San Isidro near the Puerta del Sol is stunning, while the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Almudena took 100 years to complete, the immodest Palacio Real is impressive and the Palacio Real de El Pardo, north of the city, is also magnificent. Parque del Buen Retiro is lovely, and the Plaza de Toros Monumental de las Ventas is the world’s biggest bullring!

Barcelona is Spain’s crown jewel. Port Vell, and Montjuïc we’re especially redeveloped for the Olympics, At its foot is Plaça d'Espanya, Parc Joan Miró, Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, and spectacularly colourful fountains. The world famous ‘Las Ramblas’ – is a tree lined pedestrian street of buskers, pavement cafes and street artists, leading up to Placa de Catalunya, through the Barri Gotic, (old town). The unrivalled Sagrada Familia cathedral, along with bizarre la Pedrera and Park Guell are unique legacies of Antonio Gaudi.

Seville was once the capital, evident in its immense cathedral, La Giralda (minaret tower), Alcácazar palace, Moorish Palacio de Don Pedro, 13th-century Torre del Oro, and Barrio de Santa Cruz (medieval Jewish quarter).

Valencia’s centerpiece is the Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, and Baroque Cathedral, along with many fine museums.

Málaga is a thriving tourist centre and hub for the entire Costa del Sol. It has a delightful old town and excellent Picasso museum.

By car you can explore the Costa del Sol, Granada, Pyranees and Pamplona, San Sebastian, Toledo and more.